There was plenty of speculation that Ian Kennedy would make his return to the New York Yankees on June 27th. That day the Yankees will be playing a split-stadium, day-night doubleheader against the New York Mets. Even with the recent injury to Chien-Ming Wang, the team has decided against rushing the youngster back, instead opting to make sure he’s healthy for the long haul.

Kennedy threw a bullpen session Sunday and reported no problems following. He’s now scheduled to throw batting practice this Friday. The team would ideally like him to have a couple starts of rehab in the minor leagues. He should have that first start sometime next week if all goes well Friday. Which would mean there is just not enough time for him to get enough work in to be back for that series.

Personally, I don’t mind them taking their time with him. Unlike cynical Yankees fans its not because I don’t believe him, it’s that I think this kid could be a very big asset this summer for the team. With Wang out for a while the team is looking internally to replace him, and Kennedy is the best option right now. There is no way he could pitch to that level but the thing is he doesn’t have to! The Yankees just need a pitcher who can keep them afloat and give quality innings till Wang makes his return. Even with how he has performed this year that is something Ian CAN DO! People may not want to believe that but he can if he harnesses in his control issues. He proved last year he can make quality starts, and he has had a couple moments this year where the talent has shown.

So who will pitch against the Mets that day? My money would be on newly acquired Sidney Ponson, Kei Igawa, Alan Horne or Double-A pitcher Alfredo Aceves. We’ll see what happens thou when that comes, it is still far enough away not to worry about the specific starter just yet. All we know is it won’t be Ian.

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